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You are here > Things To Do > Exeter Cathedral
**OPEN FOR VISITORS FROM MONDAY 13TH JULY DO COME AND ENJOY THE REMARKABLE BUILDING & CALM YOU WILL FIND INSIDE**
Exeter Cathedral is one of the oldest and most beautiful Cathedrals in England. Located in the centre of the city, there has been a Cathedral on the present site for nearly one thousand years.
The building itself is a remarkable feat of engineering, design and craftsmanship. It has the longest stretch of unbroken Gothic vaulting in the world, stunning stained glass windows and an intricately carved image screen on the West Front.
Inside, you’ll find a unique Minstrels’ Gallery, a 15th century Astronomical Clock, a complete set of medieval ‘misericords’ (mercy-seats) and much more. There is also a well-stocked Shop selling exclusive gifts and souvenirs of your visit, whilst the Cathedral Café provides a chance to escape and enjoy a light lunch, Devon Cream Tea or just a cup of coffee and a cake.
Guided Tours
Our experienced guides will lead you through the Cathedral on a free tour as part of your visit. Discover the characters that have influenced the Cathedral through its long history, hear about the building of this ancient masterpiece and uncover secrets from its past. Guided tours run several times a day and an audio tour (narrated by the actor John Nettles) is also available for FREE during normal visitor hours.
Roof Tours
This fascinating behind-the-scenes tour takes you into the roof void high above the Nave, into the south tower, through the spaces in the north tower and onto the roof to enjoy the best views of Exeter (and beyond).
Tours usually take place on selected Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from July to September or at other times (for groups of 6 or more) by appointment. From time to time there are special roof tours which end in the bellringing chamber in the South Tower, and offer the opportunity to see the band of bellringers beginning their regular ringing. Please check dates online [www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk/events]
Attending services
Several services take place in Exeter Cathedral each day and there is usually an opportunity to hear the Cathedral Choir singing (during term time and at Christmas, Easter and other special days). If you are looking for a church to attend in Exeter we look forward to welcoming you.
Exeter Cathedral prides itself on its choral tradition which dates back nearly 900 years. At 17.30 on most weekdays the Cathedral Choir sing Evensong. The service is free to attend, lasts 45 minutes, and everyone is welcome to attend.
Special Events and the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market
The Cathedral is also a popular venue for concerts, talks, workshops and other events.
Local orchestras and choirs sit in the schedule alongside household names such as the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Tenebrae and the Sixteen. School holiday programmes are planned to include fun (and affordable) activities for children and families, whilst a regular programme of events for adults is also offered.
Every November the Cathedral Green is transformed into festive village ahead of the Exeter Cathedral Christmas Market. The event sees 80-90 traders showcasing the very best of local and continental food, drinks, crafts and gifts. In 2018 the Christmas Market will trade from 15th November until 16th December 2018 (allowing the Cathedral to make its final preparations for Christmas services). After the opening night (on 15th November the market will trade 18.00-21.00) the trading times are:
Monday to Wednesday: 10.00-19.00
Thursday to Saturday: 10.00-21.00
Sunday: 11.00-17.00
More information about what’s on in Exeter at the Cathedral can be found at www.exeter-cathedral.org.uk.
About the admission fee
There is never a charge to pray or attend a service in the Cathedral and all are welcome. The admission fee paid by visitors contributes to the £4,000 daily operating costs, none of which is paid for by the UK Government or the Diocese of Exeter.
Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
---|---|
Adult | £7.50 per ticket |
Child under 18 free if accompanied by adult | Free |
Students & Senior Citizens | £5.00 per ticket |
For group prices please visit Exeter Cathedral's website.
There is a charge to enter the Cathedral unless you are visiting us for prayer or to attend a service. This charge contributes to the huge cost (over £1.3 million a year) of maintaining this beautiful and historic building.
Exeter is easily reached from the A30, A38 and M5. There is no public parking available at the Cathedral.
For more information please visit www.exeter.gov.uk/car-parking/
Exeter Central railway station is a 6 minute walk from the Cathedral.
Exeter St Davids railway station is an 18 minute walk from the Cathedral.
Local buses stop at various points along the High Street/Sidwell Street.
This information is self-assessed; therefore we accept no liability for its accuracy. Please contact the venue for further information.
Exeter Cathedral - Church of Saint Peter (1 Jan 2021 - 31 Dec 2021) | ||
---|---|---|
Day | Times | |
Monday - Saturday | 09:00 | - 17:00* |
Sunday | 11:30 | - 17:00* |
* There are times when the Cathedral closes for special services or other events, sometimes at short notice.
Sundays open from 11.30am
• Expert guided tours, trails and activities all within the admission price
• Pay once and return as many times as you like within 12 months (with GiftAid)
Please check with the Visitors Office 01392 285983 before making a special journey.
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